Damascus - The visit of President of the Philippines Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to Damascus on Sunday is part of the efforts to push bilateral relations between the two countries forward in all fields, particularly political and economic fields.
Visits of senior Philippine officials to Damascus since the beginning of 2009 have helped boosting bilateral relations, with Vice President Noli de Castro visiting Damascus last month to open his country's embassy in Damascus.
During his meeting with President al-Assad, de Castro expressed appreciation of Syria's role and efforts in achieving peace and stability in the Middle East, noting that his country is aware of Syria's importance in the region.
De Castro said the opening of the embassy will be an important point in the two countries relations, which date back to Syria's independence.
President Bashar al-Assad also discussed in February with Foreign Minister Alberto Romulo the future of relations between the two countries, with both sides agreeing on the importance of bolstering bilateral cooperation and coordination in regional and international forums.
Minister Romulo underlined the two countries' agreement to continue meetings to discuss issues that will help strengthening friendship and cooperation.
The opening of the embassy in February shows the two sides' desire to improve relations and coordinate issues.
In an interview with SANA, Ambassador of the Philippines in Damascus Wilfredo Cuyugan said the visit of President Macapagal-Arroyo affirms the Philippines' interest in developing relations with Syria, pointing out that three agreements will be signed during this visit.
The first agreement deals with political deliberations between the two countries' Foreign Ministries, the second deals with diplomatic visas and official delegations, while the third deals with cultural exchange.
The Ambassador pointed out that the visit of President Macapagal-Arroyo will help revitalize economic relations through communication between Syrian and Filipino businessmen and increasing trade exchange.
He noted that Syrian-Filipino relations are good, dating back to 63 years when Syria gained its independence, with the Philippines being one of the first countries to recognize Syria as an independent sovereign country.
Cuyugan added that his country is looking forward to Syria's support in its effort to join the Organization of Islamic Conference, considering that Syria will be hosting the OIC Foreign Ministers meeting later in May.
The Ambassador concluded by expressing optimism over the relations between the two countries on all levels.
By H. Sabbagh / Ghossoun
© SANA (Syria Arab News Agency) 2009
